manaus trip

Plan Your Trip to Manaus: Best of Manaus Tourism

Essential Manaus

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Manaus Is Great For

Jet boat rentals.

Eat & drink

Nature and Wildlife Tours

Hiking Tours

• Amazon Ecopark Jungle Lodge
• Hotel Villa Amazonia
• Uiara Amazon Resort
• Intercity Manaus
• Quality Hotel Manaus
• Terra & Mar Restaurante
• Coco Bambu Manaus
• Caxiri Manaus
• Banzeiro Manaus
• Vinhedo Rio & Mar
• Teatro Amazonas
• Meeting of Waters
• Manauara Shopping
• Museu da Amazonia (MUSA)
• Ponta Negra Beach
• 4 Days Amazon Jungle Adventure Tour
• 3 Days Amazon Jungle Adventure Tour
• A Whole Day in the Jungle
• Amazon Jungle Experience with Overnight
• Amazing Waterfalls of the Amazon - Presidente Figueiredo

Lonely Plan-it: How to float down the Amazon and enjoy memorable meals around Manaus, Brazil

Oct 3, 2023 • 8 min read

A cruise down the mighty Amazon on the bucket list of most adventurous travelers. Here’s how to plan yours © Ramesh Thadani / Getty Images

It’s almost impossible to understate the allure of the Amazon .

The world’s largest rainforest enjoys myth-like travel status among curiosity seekers and adventurers – despite being one of the muggiest, wettest and notoriously difficult places to navigate on Earth.

The contrasts in modernity, lifestyle, food, nature and personality between the megalopolis of São Paulo , Brazil ’s largest city, and Manaus , the Amazon’s largest city – 2691km (1672 miles) between them, as the macaw flies – are startling, especially so for two places within one same (huge) country. You can be certain that the capital of the Brazilian state of Amazonas isn’t going to be anything like your home, either.

And therein lies its appeal.

Sitting at the confluence of the blackwater Rio Negro – the largest left tributary of the Amazon – and the khaki-toned Rio Solimões – the 1609km(1000-mile)-long, 80km(50-mile)-wide upper section of the Amazon – Manaus has defiantly dug in among one of Mother Nature’s most superlative environments, determined to live off a land that, while deeply unforgiving, serves up an exotic cornucopia of nature and nurture to those who respect its wonder.

A visit here is equally extraordinary: unparalleled biodiversity and feats of the natural world await outside a breakneck jungle metropolis, filled with far-flung foods, frenetic markets and river-driven way of life. Besides Belém in the neighboring state of Pará (the Amazon’s other big city of note), Manaus knows no peers. You’re in the thick of it here – and that’s precisely the point. 

Step 1: Pick a time of year to visit

More wildlife during the dry season, or deeper access during the wet months?

The Amazon’s two distinct seasons – wet (high water) and dry (low water) – offer advantages and disadvantages that anyone visiting the jungle should carefully consider. The July-to-December dry season affords lower river levels and better wildlife-spotting potential from riverboat cruises. The January-to-May wet season is true to its name, bringing on rainier days and higher humidity, along with rising water levels that allow for better tributary access via such alternative transport methods as canoes.

June is the sweet spot: water levels remain high and scenery is at its greenest from the rainy season, but rainfall drops off as the jungle transitions to the drier period. The wet season obviously yields more mosquitos (one of the Amazon’s greatest nuisances), but in reality the difference is negligible – they remain a year-round menace. From a price perspective, costs rise during the Brazilian summer (December to February), so there are deals to be had outside of those months.

Step 2: Sort out your visa situation for Brazil

Check ahead for ever-changing policies.

While citizens from Australia, Canada and the USA have enjoyed visa-free travel for tourism stays up to 90 days for several years now, thanks to fluid politics and reciprocity agreements Brazil’s visa policies change more than most countries’. Case in point: beginning in January 2024, nationals of these countries will once again need a visa (citizens of the UK, New Zealand, Japan, South Africa and the EU remain visa-free at time of writing). It’s always best to both check (and apply, if necessary) well in advance of your planned travel dates at the website of Brazil’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs or an authorized third-party visa facilitator. You will need to show your flight details as part of your application.

Step 3: Decide your desired level of comfort 

A rustic wooden ferry, or luxurious cruiser?

The Amazon is one of the world’s last great bastions of passenger river travel, and navigating the jungle via riverboat is the stuff of intrepid adventurers’ bucket lists. Boats for both travel and leisure depart Manaus regularly, running the gamut in quality and comfort. Budget motor yachts and rustic passenger ferries make up the jungle’s “highway” system, transporting residents and tourists to river settlements up and down river from Manaus. More-luxurious river cruises for tourism purposes also ply the region’s waters.

Are you looking for a refined experience or up for roughing it? The latter means stringing up a hammock on an open deck of a wooden ferry with up to 300 fellow travelers; luxurious cruises and floating resorts with all the finer things offer a more polished experience. You know what kind of traveler you are – important to keep in mind as you plan your Amazon trip. 

Step 4: Consider excursion options from Manaus and book ahead as far as possible

The Amazon is yours to discover – with some advance planning.

Wildlife and unspoiled nature have long been absent from Manaus’ direct vicinity, so the majority of the city’s visitors will be coming or going from adventures further afield in the jungle . That’s not to say there is nothing to do in the city itself – the wonderful Teatro Amazonas , a stunning belle-époque confection built during a rubber-boom bonanza, comes to mind – but Manaus is, in most cases, a (fascinating) transit point. Needless to say, the Amazon is popular – so always book excursions and jungle lodges as far in advance as possible. Here are some of the most in-demand excursions from Manaus.

Encontro das Águas

The city’s spectacular meeting of the waters – which merge but don’t seem to mix – is the easiest and most popular excursion from Manaus, its location just east of the city center making it for a perfect quick trip. The dramatically dissimilar Rio Negro and Solimões come head to head just off Manaus’s shoreline, refusing to yield for some 6km (4 miles). It makes for a wild natural phenomenon and is the city’s principal must-see, usually included on any day trip and/or passage to river lodges.

One of the closest pristine environments to the city, Rio Urubu’s intact ecosystem affords wildlife viewing opportunities aplenty within its dense flooded-forest environs, just two hours by road from Manaus. Jungle hikes, visits to local communities, overnight forest camping and a few notable jungle lodges are highlights here. Proximity to Manaus makes for a convenient option for time-limited visitors. 

Some 100km (62 miles) and three hours by boat southeast of Manaus, the Juma River unravels within a 17,000+-acre preserve that, while surrounded by ever-encroaching modernity, remains a rich and worthwhile ecosystem and preserved biodiversity hotspot. The river is so serene, folks joke it harbors a characteristic, lake-like calmness. With easy access from Manaus, it’s a popular spot, and several jungle lodges operate here. Top-end Juma Lodge comes highly recommended for its sustainable architecture and eco-forward ethos (think photovoltaic solar energy, 90% local community staff, etc). 

The preserves and parks of the Rio Negro basin

The largest blackwater river in the world, the Rio Negro is the gateway to deeper Amazonian exploration and home to several notable national parks. Parque Nacional de Anavilhanas , a half-day boat ride northwest of Manaus, is home to some 400 river islands (at high-water level, an eerie sunken forest effect makes for spectacular photos) and a jungly patchwork of nook-and-cranny-fed waterways that stretch some 130km (81 miles). Further west, Parque Nacional do Jaú , Brazil’s second-biggest national park, clocks in at 23,000 sq km (8880 sq miles) – one of the world’s largest patches of preserved tropical rainforest. Finally, Reserva Extrativista Baixo Rio Branco-Jauaperi , 500km (311 miles) upstream from Manaus, requires more determination and time to access – but those who make the effort are justly rewarded with some of the Amazon’s best wildlife-viewing opportunities. 

Step 5: Pack appropriately

Don’t count on purchasing anything you forget.

This one might seem obvious – yet it’s crucial to keep in mind that popping into a nearby shopping mall won’t be an option. If you’re going the rustic-riverboat route, you’ll want to bring cavalcade of supplies: hammock, rope, light bedsheet, dry snacks, a good book or two, extra toilet paper, mosquito net, familiar medicines, anti-bacterial Marseille soap, thin cable and lock (to secure your bag to one of the boat’s center poles), and so on. (At jungle lodges, some of those basic necessities will generally be on hand.) Regardless of the trip you choose, you’ll also want a bevy of long, breathable, waterproof clothes, waterproof shoes or boots, a raincoat or parka, sunscreen, hat, binoculars, water bottle and filter, and plenty of serious mosquito repellent (the natural, organic stuff won’t cut it here). Malaria risk is lower in Manaus and the lower Amazon basin, so drugs for malaria prophylaxis aren’t entirely necessary. Still, speak with your doctor before you make any final decisions.

Step 6: Plan out your Manaus meals

Dig into fascinating local cuisine.

The Amazon serves up some of Brazil’s best and most interesting restaurants. Reserve a table in advance at Banzeiro , a long-standing Amazonian dining icon where Chef Felipe Schaedler flips the jungle’s bounty into surprising and unique fare, including the unforgettable crunchy tambaqui ribs and an arsenal of locally driven delights. At Biatüwi , Brazil’s first Indigenous-run restaurant, Sateré-Mawé Chef Clarinda Ramos showcases the Amazon-basin delicacies of nearby local communities. And don’t miss the city’s signature sandwich, the x-caboquinho , made with curd cheese, fried pacovã banana and tucumã shavings on French bread.

If I could do it all again…

I have experienced the Amazon from all available extremes: rustic passenger boats, a midrange cruise and several luxury jungle lodges. Honestly, each option offers a unique and extraordinary experience – with a few caveats. Staring into the forest canopy over several days from a riverboat can become tedious – you don’t see as much wildlife as you imagine (you’ll see some pink dolphins in the river if you’re lucky, but most animals are hidden deeper into the rainforest), and there isn’t a lot to do besides drink and swap traveler tales. Excursions from river lodges are better, with the added bonuses of expert guides, more-comfortable accommodations, better food and a (potential) escape from mosquitoes.

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The Ultimate Manaus Travel Guide: Explore Brazil Like a Local [2024]

Table of Contents

Manaus TRAVEL GUIDE

Manaus brazil: a quick look.

If I ask you to tell me one thing that is in Brazil, your answer will probably be the Amazon rainforest. And if you want to dive deeper into its heart, then I have something to show you!

In this Manaus travel guide, you will find everything you need to know, from pre-planning your trip to staying safe.  If you plan on traveling to other places in Brazil and need an in-depth country guide, see our complete  Brazil travel guide . 

Now back to Manaus!

Manaus is the capital of a state housing most of this beautiful forest, and I’ll tell you all you need to know about it in this Manaus travel guide. Although you won’t have saltwater beaches, you will get to enjoy a different face of Brazil.

This ultimate Manaus travel guide is about much more than planning a trip’s technicalities; it is to make sure you’ve got a smooth trip. So we will talk about where to stay, what tours to take and how to arrive where you want. 

Side note:  One of the main questions we get when planning a trip to our country is “when is the  best time to visit Brazil ”, which you can read later.

Brazil is a beautiful country with diverse landscapes to explore, and I hope to be along with you for the ride. So grab some water, take a seat, and let’s go!

Manaus Brazil: Quick travel tips before you go

🛫 Airport: Manaus is a capital city, and the closest airport is in town, called Manaus International Airport. The code is MAO.

🤑 Currency : Like every other city in the country, the main currency here is the Brazilian Real, shown by the R$ symbol.

🗣️ Language: Manaus’s primary language is Portuguese, but you can expect English to be spoken at most hotels and tourist spots.

🕰️ Time Zone: Manaus time zone is in the America/Manaus zone (GMT-4). Meaning it’s most often aligned with EST and three hours ahead of PST.

💵 Cost: We have another section in our Manaus travel guide to talk about it in depth, but this is a super affordable trip. Especially if you’re coming from a stronger currency like the US dollar, EURO, or Yen.

🛜 Internet: Because this is a state capital, mobile internet should be great! You will be fine to use all the apps needed.

📄 Brazil Visa: As of now, If you are traveling from the United States, Canada, Australia, or Japan, then NO. This could change as of October 1, 2023. Track the status and details here . You do NOT need a visa for EU Nationals, and you may not be affected by the Oct 1, 2023 change. You can see the details here .

🔌 Power Outlets: Most outlets in Brazil have one of two plug types: C or N. C is the one with two round pins, and N has an additional one for grounding. For visitors from other countries, you’ll need this universal travel adapter .

🔋 Power Grid: The power grid in Manaus is quite stable. But remember, Brazil mostly operates on 127/220V voltage and 60Hz. While a few newer buildings have a 220V grid, don’t count on it everywhere.

📳 SIM Card : If you are not sure about getting a SIM card , think that you will probably need to use apps like Uber or Google Maps, or maybe you will want to upload a picture, so definitely get one! Also, always check the data package is big enough.

🚘 Car Rentals: Renting a car and learning about new traffic rules may seem complicated, but our Manaus travel guide highly recommends considering it. It is your best choice to get around.

Manaus Brazil: Safety Travel Tips (Use Common Sense)

🍏 Food safety: A majority of foods are safe for eating, even in most stalls. Just avoid certain kinds like seafood from street vendors.

💧 Water safety: Tap water isn’t drinkable AT ALL when unfiltered, but it’s okay for everything else! Restaurants generally filter water for ice and drinks, so you’ll be fine on that end, too. I personally recommend you carry a reusable bottle with you to avoid buying bottles all the time. You can use something like a Water-To-Go Filterable Bottle . It is refillable but filters your water so you don’t get sick in Brazil.

👷‍♀️ Daytime safety: Daytime safety is down to pretty basic stuff because petty theft is the main concern, as it is in all major cities. Just be mindful of your belongings, and don’t take them out unless it’s necessary.

🦺 Nighttime safety: At night, keep using your common sense. Your valuables still need to be safely tucked away. As for being out in the streets, it’s never recommended if you are alone, so prefer to use ride-sharing apps or rent a car .

👺 Avoiding scams: Scamming will happen mostly during sales transactions, so always go for buying tickets online from reputable websites. And if you take any cabs, always make sure the meter is up and running.

Manaus Brazil Travel Tips: A Locals Perspective

⚠️ Stay Smart, Stay Safe: Travel safety is an important topic in our Manaus travel guide! Most of all, you should use common sense in major cities and avoid areas that get deserted after dark. And solo female travelers, like me, always make sure your plans end with you back in the hotel before midnight.

🏨 Best neighborhoods for tourists: Hotels in Manaus are concentrated in a few areas, so your main options are Historical Downtown (best central location and for groups and solo travelers), Vieralves (best for nightlife), Adrianópolis (best for couples), and Itapuã (best for families).

🎄 Top Brazilian holidays and traditions: Although Manaus has some local celebrations, it also celebrates our nationwide dates! So you can expect Carnaval in February, Easter in March, Festa Junina in June and July, and the Holiday season in late December.

🍜 Local food to try: Sweet water fish stew, Farofa de Uarini, Tucumã, X-Caboquinho (a breakfast sandwich), Pupunha, and other fruits that are only around in the area!

🍹 Local drinks to try (alcoholic): In Manaus, it’s all about the cachaça. You can try several different flavors and styles in the bars around town.

🧉 Local drinks to try (non-alcoholic): Our Manaus travel guide highly recommends you try as many fruit juices as you can since we’ve got such a nice variety here.

🚶‍♂️ Walkability: The city itself is located in the Amazonian plain, which means smooth streets perfect for all kinds of activities.

🎉 Nightlife: Nightlife here is something made of tradition since there are many established places for you to visit, from karaoke to clubs.

😀 Friendly to Foreigners: Fun fact: Manaus is a hub for industrial activity, so the town is used to receiving foreigners all the time. You can expect to be welcomed with open arms!

🏥 Hospitals: There are a number of great and renowned hospitals in town in case of an emergency! We do have a public health system, but you should still get insurance, just in case!

🇺🇸 English Speaking: You will find fluent speakers more easily in hotels, but many restaurants have their menus translated and such!

Where is Manaus Brazil Located?

Manaus map .

Once upon a time, Manaus was known for being a luxurious town and earned the ‘Paris of the tropics’ nickname. It is located in the north part of our country, right where the Black and Amazon rivers meet. With a different kind of beauty to offer, this beautiful town has all you need! 

What State is Manaus In? 

Surrounded by the sweetest waters, Manaus is located in the state of Amazon. The state, with the same name as the amazing forest, is filled with Brazil’s widest side. It is also home to our nation’s biggest industrial hub. It is a destination for people wanting to experience the uniqueness our northern region has to offer.

What’s the Closest Airport to Manaus Brazil?

As we mentioned previously in our Manaus travel guide, the Manaus International Airport is actually in town! And because it is so close to the downtown area, approximately 8 miles (13 Kilometers), you can cover the distance in different ways!

What is the Best Way to Get to Your Manaus Hotel?

Once your flight touches down at Manaus International Airport (SSA), you have four different ways to reach your home base for the next few days!

As the person writing you an ultimate Manaus travel guide, my top recommendation is booking a private shuttle for a stress-free beginning to your trip. It picks you up at the airport and drops you off at the reception of your hotel.

💡 Pro Tip: If you plan to take an Uber, ensure you have a Brazil SIM card so your phone operates appropriately. You never want to depend on free public WIFI for using your ride-share apps. 

Your third way to leave the airport is to get a taxi. In this case, it’s doable because the downtown area is close by. But it can be costly, so pay attention to the meter to avoid being overcharged!

But our Manaus travel guide highly recommends renting a car as well, just because it’ll make your life easier. You will be happy to have a private way of getting around, and it enables you to explore more of the surrounding areas!

And if your trip is a family thing, getting a rental is a must since not everybody will fit into a single Uber along with their bags.

How to Get Around Manaus?

Ride Sharing (top choice): Not only is this efficient, but Manaus also has a few different apps working in town, which makes for competitive prices. It’s a cheap and convenient means of transportation. Just make sure you are equipped with a good mobile network to use the apps properly.

Rent a Car (top choice): As we were just discussing in our Manaus travel guide, renting a car is a wonderful idea! It is a little more expensive than other options, but it pays off by giving you the most freedom. With your own car, you’ll be able to follow your own pace. Just be sure to have all the necessary documentation for driving in another country!

Take a Taxi: Not all Manaus travel guides talk about how taxis can be useful. If you’re out having fun or just don’t feel like waiting for an Uber, they’ll take you wherever you want to go! Just always check to make sure it is a licensed vehicle, and the meter is on.

Get on a Bike: Although it is not recommended to use it as a primary way to get around, our Manaus travel guide recommends renting a bike for scenic rides through the many parks in town. You’re able to pay only for what you use and enjoy an amazing time.

Public transportation: This kind of transportation should be your last resort, honestly. Because Manaus is such a massive city amidst a metropolis, public transportation is always kind of crowded. So unless you really have to, try to use other alternatives!

When to Go to Manaus?

Choosing when your trip happens is the moment that makes it all come true. It is so much more than time away from work! So, to help you understand more about our seasons, keeping in mind they’re the opposite of northern hemisphere ones, here’s a summary of each!

Manaus Brazil Summer (December to March): If we are talking about summer in terms of weather, then temperatures here drop a little because it is so close to the equatorial line. But for tourism, summer is our busiest season, especially around the holidays, so expect more crowds, higher prices, and more activities to do.

Summer Carnival: The Carnaval here in Manaus is more of a historic celebration! So, if you want to see all of our traditional songs, called marchinhas, and experience this amazing celebration, start planning ahead! Spaces have a tendency to sell out fast for this time of the year. It usually happens mid to late February, to give you an idea.

Manaus Brazil Fall (April and May): Fall in Manaus is a mixture of different kinds of weather, but it’s after the wet season, so you should have it clear on that end. Temperatures are stable year-round in here, so coming during the Fall months gives you an escape from summer crowds and a better chance at deals.

Manaus Brazil Winter (June to August): Winter is every Manaus travel guide’s most recommended season to come because you can feel a slight drop in temperature. It gets hot enough to enjoy poolside days or adventure on a sweet water beach.

Manaus Brazil Spring (September to November): Manaus travel guides often advise you to skip spring, especially September, since it is the hottest month of the year. But after it is done, the thermometers are a little kinder, and so are the locals with lowering prices to entice fewer crowds.

In the end, your decision is about a lot more than what each season looks like, but it helps to know a little bit!

Where to Stay in Manaus Brazil? (By Neighborhood)

When you started reading our Manaus travel guide, your biggest question was probably about where to stay in town. The answer to this question really depends on your goals for the trip because each area will offer you a singular experience.

Hotels in Manaus are concentrated in a few areas, so your main options are Historical Downtown (best central location and for groups and solo travelers), Vieralves (best for nightlife), Adrianópolis (best for couples), and Itapuã (best for families).

So first, you should have your goal more concrete. Do you want to enjoy the Brazilian nights? Or your goal is to just soak in the sun for some time? Maybe you’re the kind of person who will explore the jungle for hour. Besides that, you should consider who is tagging along since that can be an important factor in your decision.

So, let’s check out each of the main areas from up close.

Historical Downtown (Best Central Location and for Groups and Solo Travelers) 

Most Manaus travel guides recommend staying in the Historic Downtown area for a reason. You can take your pick from all kinds of accommodations to enjoy this neighborhood that has all you may need. If you want to be where the action happens, close to tourist spots and transportation, this is the best choice for you!

It is also the top choice for groups and solo travelers because, as I said, you can find all kinds of hotels, from nicer ones to budget-friendly options. Setting up your home in this central spot is perfect for making sure you’re always ready to enjoy your day to the fullest!

Vieralves (Best for Nightlife) 

If you want to enjoy the wonders of nightlife in Manaus, then your accommodation should be in the Vieralves neighborhood.

You can find options for enjoying your night in every district, but Vieralves is the one where the best choices are! You can find nightclubs and cozy bars or even try your hand at karaoke. Your nights are sure to end with plenty of stories to tell.

Adrianópolis (Best for Couples) 

Whenever traveling with my better half, we always look for places with nicer places to stay at, regardless of closeness to downtown. Adrianópolis offers you the best hotels, nicer restaurants, and mobility to wherever you want to go!

You can walk through quiet streets and even enjoy an afternoon at the biggest shopping mall in town,

Itapuã (Best for Families) 

Itapuã is our Manaus travel guide recommendation for all the families coming to enjoy this gorgeous area. Because it is a little further away from the downtown area, you can enjoy a different kind of peace. Plus, if you have a rental car, a lot of hotels in this area have parking spots for them!

This amazing neighborhood is ready to take care of you with all the amenities you may need and let you follow your heart toward the next adventure!

Best Things to Do in Manaus Brazil

• Try Your Luck With the Black River Beach: ​​ I say try your luck because this one isn’t available all the time! The Black River, known for its dark and warm waters, sometimes has a tide low enough to enjoy a sweet water beach day with locals!
• Witness Natural Magic: Thankfully, I’ve already talked a bit about the Black River because it is half of our magic trick. At the “Encontro das Águas,” you get to see Solimões and Black River meet, but they don’t mix! Both rivers have distinct temperatures and colors, which makes for a wonderful sight!
• Travel Back in Time at Paricatuba Village: Paricatuba is a time-forgotten village a short distance away from the state capital, filled with ruins to be explored, and at the end of the day, you can watch the most gorgeous sunset at the banks of the Black River.
• Appreciate Nature at Janauari Lake Eco Park: This amazing place is a boat ride away from Manaus, and it is a retreat for vegetation that is only in the area. You should set aside enough time to explore it properly since a lot of you see here will be a once-in-a-lifetime sight.
• Learn About the Place You’re in at Musa: Being the town’s biggest natural center, this museum is alive. It is located at the Adolpho Ducke reservation, and the unique location makes for a truly immersive experience! In this property, you’ll be able to find hiking trails, libraries, and something for everyone to do.
• Taste Your Way Through the Manauara Cuisine: Old-fashioned state capitals are never complete without a huge municipal market. In the Adolpho Lisboa Market, you can try a lot of traditional dishes or just browse several stalls full of knickknacks that make for perfect souvenirs.

Best Manaus Tours

When you go to a place like Manaus, where the surroundings are as interesting as the city itself, planning an itinerary can be confusing. A way to get around that and make the most of it is booking tours, aka tours. 

This section of our Manaus travel guide is dedicated to showing some ways to tour the city itself plus the surrounding areas! You will make unforgettable memories in this place.

Once you arrive in town, it is a good idea to take a complete city tour to get a quick feel of where you want to explore further. I try to do this in every new city I go to. Mostly because it is terrible to find a place you love and have to leave the day after.

💡Pro Tip: Tours should always be booked carefully. Try to use only trusted websites or book them through your hotel’s concierge service. A lot of street vendors and sketchy-looking stores will try to sell you stuff, but the risk of being scammed is way too high.

Guided tours can be a lot more than just a way to simplify your itinerary. Tours give you the freedom to enjoy the moment and have a professional guiding you through the motions. If you choose carefully, your only concern will be enjoying a perfect day.

Here Are My Favorite Ways to Tour Manaus:

• Complete Manaus City Tour : As I just mentioned in this Manaus travel guide, splurge on a complete city tour in your first few days in town. You can do it in several ways, including on foot through the historic downtown area and maybe check some sights off of your list.
• Spend a Day in the Jungle : Or two, or three, or as many as you want! Just as with city tours, jungle tours can take many different shapes. But if you just want to get a quick experience before heading back to your hotel, one day should be more than enough to explore the jungle. Depending on which you get, they can include other activities like swimming with pink sweetwater dolphins.
• Go Chasing Waterfalls : One thing you can find a lot of around here is breathtaking waterfalls. So go chasing waterfalls and book different tours to visit the most famous ones at President Figueiredo and Iracema. 
• Learn About Native People: A tourist-fave way to tour the surroundings is by visiting native villages nearby. Going to a tribe is a truly unique way to get to know this part of Brazil we often forget exists. You can go for as long as you want, and the natives will be happy to receive you!
• Private Custom Tours : But the best way to tour is BY FAR to have a private custom tour if you’re able to splurge! You can work with your guide to put together an itinerary that works with your plans, and the best part is you don’t need to deal with a whole group while you enjoy everything Manaus has to offer.

Is Manaus Safe for Tourists?

Every Manaus travel guide needs to have a section dedicated to safety. Not because this is a dangerous city, but because you should always be cautious when you’re in new places! You could be going to Paris or a Brazilian metropolis; the risks are quite similar.

The main concern for any tourist-heavy area is petty theft. Pickpockets are always on the lookout for tourists who look unprepared and distracted, waiting to take their wallets or phones. The key to being safe is being prepared, so here are

💡Pro Safety Tips (For Any City You Travel To):

• Whenever you’re out living your best life, make sure your belongings are secure. Your most important items like cards, IDs, and even your cell phone can go in a thin fanny pack under your clothing.
• Other less important items can go in your bag since they are probably easier to replace if anything happens.
• Busier times at tourist spots are the prime time for anything happening, so be careful around sudden chaos because it can be fabricated as a distraction.
• Even if it seems like the environment around you seems calm, avoid taking your valuables out since it makes you look like more of a target.
• This tip is most valid in bigger cities, but always ask your hotel front desk if any areas need to be avoided at night or all the time.
• Flashier items, especially with designer logos, should stay in your room because they make you stand out from the crowd, and petty criminals can identify that easily.

Whenever you are at a new place, keep your safety measures in place because it’s better to be safe than regret something later. Being careful with everything, even your drinks, always pays off. In the end, it is all about trying to make smart decisions.

Plan ahead to make sure you’re choosing the best scenarios, and your trip will be amazing!

What is the Best Travel Insurance for Brazil?

Well, tap water is a huge NO in all of Brazil.

Tap water isn’t drinkable anywhere in our country. It is safe to use externally, but don’t drink it under any circumstances!

You will be able to safely brush your teeth and do your hygiene, but no Manaus travel guide will tell you it’s okay to chug it. You’d do best by buying bottled water when needed or carrying a refillable one to take advantage of filters.

Most establishments that deal with food have a filter to make ice and drinks, so you can ask for some ‘água da casa.’ If it’s not available, then just buy a bottle.

Also, another topic every Manaus travel guide touches on is how hot it can get here ALL YEAR LONG. So stay properly hydrated when you’re outside; otherwise, you can get sick and ruin your entire trip.

So Your Steps to Stay Safe With the Water Are:

• If you are in an Airbnb, boil water in case there isn’t a filter. The filter is usually attached to the kitchen sink faucet.
• At hotels, buy bottled water in the absence of filters. This can get expensive quickly, so look for grocery stores nearby to buy it cheaper.
• Bring along or buy a reusable water bottle to refill, and because refilling is generally free, you don’t have to worry about something as simple as buying drinking water while in Manaus, Brazil. Something like the Water-To-Go Filterable Bottle works really well.

Let’s explore what each of them brings to the table: 

✅ World Nomads : Best for comprehensive coverage, flexibility, AND adventure sports. Covers trip cancellation, emergency medical costs, and emergency medical transportation and protects your travel gear. 

✅ SafetyWing : This is for general travelers, frequent travelers,  and long-term digital nomads in Brazil. Provides lots of flexibility as far as start date, coverage extension, and automatic renewals. It also has limited home-country coverage. 

✅ Travel Insurance Master : Brazil travel insurance search tool, this is for people who really want to compare policies. 

Manaus Travel: Frequently Asked Questions

Can you drink the water in manaus brazil.

Tap water is a big NO for drinking in all of Brazil.

Water from taps isn’t good for drinking anywhere in our country. It is okay to use it externally, but don’t drink it under any circumstances since it wasn’t treated for consumption!

You are cleared to safely brush your teeth and do your hygiene, but no Manaus travel guide will recommend you just chug it. It would be best to buy bottled water when needed or carry a refillable one to take advantage of filters.

Most places that deal with food have a dedicated filter to make their ice and drinks, so you can always ask for some ‘água da casa.’ If it isn’t available for free, then just buy a bottle for now.

Also, another topic every Manaus travel guide should touch on is how hot it gets here ALL YEAR LONG. So, staying properly hydrated when outside is a must; otherwise, you may get sick and ruin your entire trip.

• Bring along or buy a reusable water bottle to refill, and because refilling is generally free, you don’t have to worry about something as simple as buying drinking water while in Manaus, Brazil.

What’s the Manaus Weather Like?

Manaus’ weather is unlike most of Brazil since it’s equatorial, which means mostly higher temperatures and a lot of rain depending on the time of the year.

Because thermometers tend to be stable, you don’t get a lot of variation between seasons. Summer months (December through February) average between 31⁰C and 24⁰C (87,8⁰F to 75,2⁰F), and winter (June through September) remains in the same area.

The wet season is generally from December to May, and the water levels can vary up to 15 meters (42 ft). It is wonderful to see how the buildings are created to accommodate this variation! The only recommendation I can think of is to avoid the last couple of months in the dry season because the air gets too dry, and that can be uncomfortable.

Is Manaus Expensive?

The answer to this depends on where you are coming from. If your original spot is somewhere in the US or Europe, even the UK, it is super affordable because of favorable exchange rates. The key to making your money go a long way is to plan everything nicely beforehand.

It is so much easier to have a good time when we don’t have to worry about expenses as much. But if you are a person who prefers to stay on the higher end of things, your costs will definitely add up to an amount closer to what you generally spend.

Brazil is a different kind of place. You can easily find amazing places to dine in, handcrafted items, and places to visit for a fair price.

We talk about peak and slow seasons further down our Manaus travel guide, but it is always important to remember how prices are hiked up during peak seasons. So, coming in an off-season can make room in your budget for more amazing activities or experiences.

Is Manaus Worth Visiting?

Well, I definitely think so! 

This part of northern Brazil is the last one to preserve how things were once upon a time before Europeans arrived on the continent. So it’ll be worth it to get on a plane and discover the wild side of South America. And if you want to go even further, no one celebrates Carnaval with as much tradition as the northern people.

You need to consider Manaus if you are the kind of traveler who prefers to enjoy different experiences and live through amazing things. Amazon is a huge state; you can use the capital as a home base for all kinds of adventures.

And all that doesn’t include the local cuisine! There are many things you will only be able to taste here. So open your mind and your heart to this amazing city.

How Many Days Do I Need in Manaus Brazil?

Not only is Manaus a historic state capital, but it is also a crossing point into a lot of itineraries you can do in the state.

Should you only be interested in going over the main spots before moving on to your next stop, three days are enough. You can stay in town, take a city tour, and still have time to sit down for a couple of meals of traditional manauara cuisine.

Now, if your trip is scheduled for peak travel seasons and you want to take your time with everything, then you will need seven to nine full days. This time allows you to venture out into the surrounding areas, take a couple of tours, and not stress so much about crowds.

As the person going along this ultimate Manaus travel guide with you, I recommend you think of how many days you need and add a couple to the tally. With a little extra time, you can work around anything that happens or just take a small break.

General Manaus, Brazil Travel Info & FAQ

🌞 Manaus Weather Remember when our Manaus travel guide talked about this being an equatorial city?

That means defined seasons are not really a concept that exists here. What really defines the weather in Manaus are the wet and dry seasons. From December to May, you can expect rain showers with a certain frequency, but they will be over almost as soon as they start. And the months between June and November tend to stay on the drier side.

I believe Manaus is a year-round destination; you just need to prepare for the time of the year you’re coming in. 

💰 Brazil Currency  Brazil’s official currency is the Brazilian Real, symbolized as BRL or R$. 

Although Credit and Debit cards are accepted almost anywhere, it is smart to be prepared! Always have some cash on hand. It is good for when you find a street fair or want to pay for an activity. Sometimes, the networks crash, and you need cash. 

It’s better to be over-prepared than to miss out on something incredible.

🗣️ Brazil Language  Brazil’s official language is Portuguese, so in Manaus and throughout the country, this is what you’ll most likely hear. 

Yes, English is available in some way in most tourist spots, as well as in higher-end accommodations. However, you still need to learn some basic Portuguese beforehand to enrich your experience and make better connections with locals.

To help you do that, you can use language-learning apps such as Duolingo and Pimsleur.

🛫 Manaus Brazil Busy Season & Slow Season Manaus Busy Season: Not just here, every city that relies on tourism has its busy season in Summer (December to February) plus the last weeks of July because of school holidays. Also, Carnaval happens in mid-February, which is maybe the highest peak, so you will face larger crowds, higher prices, and a harder time in general.

Manaus Slow Season: The slow season for Brazil is generally fall/winter, meaning from March to June, a few weeks in July, and all then all the way to November. If you want to come to Brazil while getting better deals doing it, then this is your time frame to book the trip. 

Manaus Shoulder Seasons: The shoulder seasons in Brazil are usually Fall and Spring. These months offer you balanced conditions for traveling. And since Manaus has stable temperatures year-round, you can get endless beach days! Just remember that the months between April and June tend to be more humid!

Do I Need a Visa for Brazil? 

The Short Answer: If you are traveling from the US, Canada, Australia, and Japan, the answer is no, UNTIL October 1, 2023, then the answer is yes. Currently, no visa is necessary from European Union (EU) countries. This looks like it will be the case even after October 1, 2023. 

The Longer Answer Traveling to Brazil is a great experience, but it is important to make sure you have all your ducks in a row so to speak. That means having the proper documentation needed to enter the country. 

Here’s what you need to know about securing a visa for Brazil, specifically for citizens of the US, Canada, Australia, Japan, and European Union (EU) countries.

Section 1: US, Canada, Australia, and Japan Citizens of the US, Canada, Australia, and Japan can currently enter visa-free travel to Brazil for tourism or business purposes. 

This applies to stays of up to 90 days within a 12-month period. All you need is a valid passport with an expiry date at least six months beyond your intended departure from Brazil.

Brazil is looking to implement the visa requirement again for these four countries as of October 1, 2023, so plan in advance for this. 

Section 2: European Union (EU)  Nationals

For most European Union citizens, including those from the UK, Germany, France, and Italy, also benefit from visa-free entry to Brazil. 

This policy permits EU nationals to stay in Brazil for tourism or business purposes for up to 90 days within a 12-month period. Like others, they will need a passport that is valid for at least six months past the date of entry into Brazil.

Visa and immigration requirements can and do change. It is always advised to check the latest information from the official government websites of Brazil or your home country’s foreign travel advisory services before making travel plans.

For the most recent and comprehensive information about visa requirements for all nationalities, consult the Brazilian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website or a Brazilian embassy or consulate near you during your pre-planning phase of your trip. 

The October 1st, 2023 update does not look like it will affect EU Nationals, but research accordingly here .

What Do I Need on My Brazil Packing List? 

Packing your bags to travel abroad is a part of the adventure. if you’re like me and feel like you’re never quite sure what to take and always end up forgetting something essential, this next part of our Manaus travel guide is for you.

Here’s a curated list focusing on your primary needs: 🔌 Power Adapters: Near the beginning of this Manaus travel guide, we talked about what power outlets look like here, so bring adapters that fit types C and N outlets. Double check you have the correct ones and more than one since they’re not so easy to find. For visitors from other countries, you’ll need something like this universal travel adapter .

📳 Brazil and Florianopolis SIM Card: You need to be online when going places you don’t know. You may need to use apps like Uber and Google Translate to move around and communicate, so get a SIM card with a big data package. You can get eSIM cards nowadays, too!

💧 Filterable Water Bottle: Because tap water in Brazil is safe to use but not drink, this Manaus travel guide reminds you to pack a reusable water bottle. The Water-To-Go Filterable Bottle is a great option. It is refillable, but filters your water so you don’t get sick in Brazil.

💊 Anti-Hangover Meds: Especially if you come over for Carnival celebrations, bring over whatever medicine you already trust. Like this, you avoid wasting a whole day in bed.

👒 Sun Protection: The Brazilian sun is intense, and heat is guaranteed in northern states, so be ready! Have plenty of high-SPF sunscreen and a hat to wear if needed. Even just a short time unprotected in the sun causes a lot of harm.

🦟 Bug Repellent: Brazil is mostly in tropical weather, and Manaus is surrounded by natural landscapes and jungles. And because mosquitoes and bugs will be around, especially during summer, pack repellant and remember to put on a nice layer every time you head out. To make it easy, here is an eco-friendly bug repellent .

🩴 Comfortable Footwear: On this Manaus travel guide, we talked about how you can take tours walking through town, exploring the jungle, and more. You want to do that with comfortable shoes, so leave the brand-new ones out in favor of your trusted pairs.

📄 Travel Documents: Triple-check if you have every document you may need during your trip in a safe spot. This includes passports, visas, valid licenses, and travel insurance. Bring at least two copies of each since it’ll make dealing with losses or theft easier.

Another important thing to remember is that depending on how big your toiletries are, you can’t have them in carry-on bags, so check the company’s policy before boarding. The rest of your packing list needs to include clothes appropriate for the heat and geared toward your planned activities. 

Is it Safe to Rent a Car and Drive in Manaus Brazil? 

Of course! You can easily pick up a car when you land at the airport and drive to wherever you’re staying in Manaus! 

But not every Manaus travel guide talks about traffic rules being a little different in Brazil when compared to other countries. You can rely on your car’s GPS or Google Maps to take care of translating directions, and because they need it, make sure good mobile internet is available.

Remember, our cars drive on the right-hand side! Don’t forget to get good insurance policies when booking your rental for safety. Double-check that your doors are locked each time you park the rental, with no valuable items left in sight.

All things considered, driving in Manaus is safe. It’ll add much more freedom to your trip. So, think of it as more than a way to get places; it is part of the adventure!

Do I Need to Speak Portuguese to Visit Brazil?

You won’t exactly need fluent Portuguese because you are coming to a place where tourism is popular, and the industry has adapted to have English speakers available.

However, it’s recommended you add a few key phrases to your vocabulary so your experience is much deeper. It’ll help with being immersed in the city and in a pinch if people around you aren’t English speakers. Tools such as DuoLingo are amazing! They have great user-friendly apps to help with picking up the basics before a trip.

Not achieving fluency isn’t a hurdle for you to have a great time in Brazil. It’s just nice to learn a little bit of whatever language is spoken where you’re going so you don’t rely solely on translating apps. It is something I usually try to do, and if you are like me,

Here Are Some Great Language Preparation Options for Your Trip to Brazil:

Learn A Little Portuguese: It is best to use language-learning platforms that have apps like Duolingo and Pimsleur. They have interactive courses to help you gain some confidence to speak Portuguese when you come here.

Use Google Translate App: This app can be a lifesaver in emergencies. Whenever you have to navigate language barriers, make sure to have it downloaded on your phone. Also, remember to have a Brazilian/Travel SIM card with plenty of data.

Get a Portuguese Phrasebook : And just in case, I’d also recommend you pack a Portuguese phrasebook like the ‘Lonely Planet Portuguese Phrasebook .’ It is good to have a non-digital assistant on hand to help with communication and local language.

Even if you won’t achieve fluency, it is important to have at least basic knowledge of the local language. It makes your experience richer, making you turn into your own Manaus travel guide. Locals love to see visitors make an effort.

Is Brazil Safe for Solo Female Travel? 

Brazil is generally safe for solo female travel, but we need to take precautions just as anywhere else to ensure safety.

Remember the tips we’ve discussed before in this Manaus travel guide! Do research on your accommodations and only book well-reviewed ones. Your activities should be booked through online services, and you need to be attentive to your surroundings at all times.

In addition to that, leave your fancier items at home to avoid unwanted attention.

We also ask you to respect the local rules and customs in place, even if they seem silly. It’ll show locals you care! As for transportation, use only trusted apps like Uber and 99, or just rent a car if you can!

If you’re entirely on your own, never forget to keep family and friends updated on your whereabouts, just in case.

Manaus is the heart of a wonderful part of my country, and I can’t wait to go there again. You might reach it before I do, so enjoy it for both of us! Just remember that planning can turn an ordinary trip into a life-changing experience.

Hey, everyone! My name is Lu and I’m 24 years old. Although I was born in the state of Rio, life took me around from birth. I grew up in the South of Brazil and now live in the South East, in a town called Juiz de Fora. I’ve lived in the US for a couple of years before coming back determined to meet more of my home country. Besides traveling, I love to work as a teacher and go to as many concerts as possible in the company of my besties and girlfriend!

Catch me at my socials below!

 insta: https://www.instagram.com/lumachowski/

A Travel Guide to Manaus, Brazil

E.Hanazaki Photography / Getty Images

There will usually be one of two reasons to travel to Manaus, as most people exploring the region will either be visitors keen to see the wonders of the Amazon  or business people there to support the management of the area's natural resources.

In terms of the city's attractions, the main role of the city is as a gateway to the Brazilian Amazon , and there are plenty of companies offering tours and different ways to see the rainforest . There is also the confluence of two rivers, which is why the city is located where it is, and some wonderful colonial architecture to be seen in the city too.

The Meeting of the Waters

The city center is located on the banks of the Rio Negro, but just a few miles south of the city, the river joins with the Rio Solimoes, and it is here that the real Amazon River begins.

One of the most impressive sights in the region is the point where these two rivers meet, and you can see the blue water of the Rio Solimoes meeting the brown water of the Rio Negro, and there are even boat trips that allow you to see up close where the waters meet.

Exploring the Amazing Amazon Around the City

Most people who come to the city will travel during the wet season between December and May when the rain cools the air and makes the temperatures that average thirty degrees centigrade a little more bearable.​

There are several trips available to allow you to explore the Amazon, but be prepared to carry everything you need in waterproof bags, and make sure you have good waterproof clothing.

By taking these precautions, you can enjoy some of the most enjoyable experiences in the region, and these can include meeting the tribes that live in the rainforest in the region around Manaus. You can also take jungle trips either by boat or on foot, while tree climbing classes in the Amazon are perfect for adventurous families exploring the area.

The Teatro Amazonas is at the heart of the cultural life in the city and is an opera house that was built when the rubber trade in the city was at its height, and you can get English language tours of the building, or enjoy one of the free shows.

A short distance from the city center is the Natural Science Museum, where you can see preserved examples of the wildlife of the area, along with some of the live exhibits that show a few of the Amazonian species of the region.

What to Eat

Food in the region is quite different to what you will experience elsewhere in Brazil and South America , and as manioc is one of the main crops in the area, the 'tapioquinha' is a pancake made with manioc flour that is filled with palm fruits and cheese.

There are also some nice soups such as the 'tacaca' that you will find on the menus here, and make sure that you try sugar cane juice, which is very sweet and one of the most popular drinks, particularly among the local population.

Getting in and Around the City

Because of the limited road connections, the majority of those traveling into the city will do so by airplane, with international connections coming through either Rio or Sao Paulo .

There are also ferry connections if you are planning to travel along the river. There is a good bus network in the city itself, and there are also taxis if you need to get somewhere a little more urgently.

The airport is around fifteen miles from the city center, and taxi journeys to and from the city are around 75 reals, while buses 306 and 813 offer connections that cost between 2.50 and 5 reals.

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Manaus Tours & Trips

Find your adventure through Manaus. Experience the breathtaking nature of Brazil , exploring the Iguassu National Park , the Pantanal Wildlife Reserve and the beaches of Rio de Janeiro. Try your hand at piranha fishing in the Amazon rainforest , stay in a jungle lodge and truly immerse yourself in nature.

71 Manaus tour packages with 218 reviews

• Christmas & New Year

Amazon Jungle - 3 Days

Great accommodation, delicious food, and easy transportation. The itinerary is great- guided jungle walks, camping, and boat rides/swimming.

Amazon Jungle (Air-Conditioned) - 2 Days

Manaus Amazon Jungle Adventure 5D/4N

The rain forest was a bit different from expected, but it was quite an enjoyable experience.

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• Jungle Trekking
• Hiking & Trekking
• In-depth Cultural

Amazon Rainforest Experience

Organization of and the Tour itself were excellent! I can highly recommend this Tour!

Rio de Janeiro and Amazon Rainforest Sustainable Experience

Accommodations, tour guides, activities were top notch. I recommend this to every person out there.

Puerto Maldonado Amazon Eco-Lodge 5D/4N (from Cuzco)

Manaus, Discovering the Amazon

4 days Unique Experience @ Tariri Amazon Lodge , Total Immersion in the Amazon on a Jungle Adventure - Brasil

Amazon Rainforest Adventure 4 Days /3nights

Independent Rio de Janeiro City Stay with Brazil's Amazon

Independent Rio de Janeiro City Stay with Brazil's Amazon & Buenos Aires

Best Of Brazil

• Sightseeing

Pure Brazil

Brazilian Amazon by Boat

Brazil, Argentina & Chile Unveiled with Brazil's Amazon & Easter Island

What people love about manaus tours.

From the pick up from the hostel to the Tours inside the jungle everything was awesome! The only thing: you can book the same tour in Manaus with local companies and pay a lot less!! :)

This trip was truly amazing. Our guide Anderson was so knowledgeable about the Amazon and just a great bloke. We had a great bunch of people from all over the world to enjoy the tour with. Food was plentiful and delicious. Sleeping in hammocks in the jungle and catching fish and Caiman were highlights. If you have an adventurous spirit you will love this!

Top operators

"Do not book hostel, hostel is terrible

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"The accommodation could have been better- the 3 day ranch was very basic with dirty - brown water and the host was rude

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"Great trip, guide was very knowledgeable, professional and courteous.

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The Top Things To See And Do In Manaus, Brazil

You can find Manaus in the heart of the Amazon Rainforest, a colorful mosaic of friendly locals, handmade craft stands and colonial houses. Located right in the jungle of South America, this place offers unique sights and sounds for every traveler who possesses the courage to discover the secrets of the city. Here’s our definitive guide to the 10 things you can’t miss when you travel to Manaus, Brazil . Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips , compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips .

Learn about 20th-century politics at the palácio rio negro.

Built in the 20th century by Waldemar Scholz, this elegant palace was the governor’s residence for many years. Presently, the Palácio operates as a museum and a cultural center that displays enthralling exhibitions of antique art and furniture, and presents monthly showcases of the work of local artists.

See Where The Amazon Begins

Ten kilometers away from Manaus by boat, the Rio Negro and Rio Solimões rivers come together to form the intriguing Amazon River in Brazil. At the meeting of the waters, known to locals as encontro das aguas, the acid, black waters from the Rio Negro and the alkaline waters from the Solimões meet, creating a magnificent and unique lakeside spectacle of color, a sight definitely worth seeing when you’re in Manaus.

Do A Little Shoping At Mercado Municipal Adolpho Lisboa

Believe it or not, the entire building that houses this market was shipped over from Europe around 1880. Colorful displays of local fruits, vegetables and herbs will excite enthusiastic shoppers here, and this is the best place in Manaus to source handmade leather gifts and souvenirs. We dare you not to buy an intricately decorated craft here…

Take Some Photos Of The Victoria Amazónica Water Lily

The largest water lily in the world is called Victoria Amazónica, in honor of Queen Victoria, and the plant can be found in abundance in the Amazon River that begins in Manaus. Its beautiful circular leaves can grow up to 2.5 meters in diameter, and the breathtaking white flowers it produces turn light pink on their second day of life. Some serious Instagram material can be found here.

Play In The Waterfalls Located At Presidente Figueiredo

Just two hours away from Manaus, also known as the ‘Land of Waterfalls’, this is an excursion all nature lovers cannot miss. You’ll travel through the mysterious and verdant jungle for an hour before you arrive at the spectacular, glassy and cascading water, a perfect spot in which to swim and splash around during a balmy Brazilian afternoon. There’s also the opporunity to partake in some rafting, if you dare.

Enjoy Some French Architecture

The Teatro Amazonas, or the Amazonas Theatre, was built in the 19th century during Manaus’ golden era, and locals have managed to preserve its beautiful French architecture for all these years. Take the guided tour through the opera house to learn a little bit more about the lifestyle in the 1800s in Manaus. The ticket costs 10 reales per person, and offers visitors the chance to explore the galleries, traverse the gilded stairways and get a true taste of the Brazil of a bygone era.

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Discover Some Of The Amazon’s Best-Kept Secrets

The MUSA, also known as the Museu da Amazonia, gives visitors the opportunity to learn about the Amazon jungle, its native communities, its local species and much more, in tours lasting only three hours. Don’t miss the incredible view of the jungle available from the top of the tower here. Top tip: some tours provide a pick-up service from you hotel at 4am, which means visitors arrive at the tower in time to witness a spectacular sunrise.

Savor The Local Cuisine

Manaus is brimming with street markets, which foodies will fall in love with instantly. Ice-cold coconut juice, caipirinhas, fresh fruit, take-away barbecue plates and traditional cuisine to eat on the go combine perfectly with the live entertainment that you’ll enjoy as you walk down the harbor.

Get A Tan In Ponta Negra

This is the fancy party of the city, as you’ll soon realize from the elegant condo towers and modern buildings dotting the landscape. A stretch of sand enjoyed by locals and tourists all year round, the shore here was transformed into an artificial beach a couple of years ago, and provides a perfect place to bask in the glorious rays of Manaus. It is one of the most popular spots in the area, and is situated 13 kilometers from downtown.

Spend A Night At A Jungle Hotel

End your trip to Manaus with an experience you’ll never forget: spend a night in a jungle hotel, a secluded accommodation option situated right in the middle of the Brazilian rainforest. Most of the hotels can only be reached by boats, and all feature eco-friendly rooms made out of local woods. The only thing that separates you from the wildlife that’s outside is a mosquito net located on each window. Needless to say, you’ll get the best photographs of your trip here.

Culture Trips launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes places and communities so special.

Our immersive trips , led by Local Insiders, are once-in-a-lifetime experiences and an invitation to travel the world with like-minded explorers. Our Travel Experts are on hand to help you make perfect memories. All our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

All our travel guides are curated by the Culture Trip team working in tandem with local experts. From unique experiences to essential tips on how to make the most of your future travels, we’ve got you covered.

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Manaus Trip Planner

Top attractions in manaus.

Other notable attractions

Popular road trips from Manaus

All road trips from manaus.

• Manaus to Cusco drive
• Manaus to Machu Picchu drive
• Manaus to Arequipa drive
• Manaus to La Paz drive
• Manaus to Puno drive
• Manaus to Caracas drive
• Manaus to Uyuni drive
• Manaus to Boa Vista drive
• Manaus to Cuiaba drive
• Manaus to Chapada dos Guimaraes drive
• Manaus to Copacabana drive
• Manaus to Maras drive
• Manaus to Ollantaytambo drive

Explore nearby places

• Presidente Figueiredo
• Itacoatiara
• Sao Sebastiao do Uatuma
• Rorainopolis
• Alter do Chao

All related maps of Manaus

• Map of Manaus
• Map of Iranduba
• Map of Manacapuru
• Map of Careiro
• Map of Autazes
• Map of Novo Airao
• Map of Presidente Figueiredo
• Map of Caapiranga
• Map of Balbina
• Map of Borba
• Map of Itacoatiara
• Map of Silves
• Map of Itapiranga
• Map of Sao Sebastiao do Uatuma
• Map of Maues
• Map of Manicore
• Map of Coari
• Map of Parintins
• Map of Nhamunda
• Map of Barcelos
• Map of Apui
• Map of Rorainopolis
• Map of Itaituba
• Map of Oriximina
• Map of Obidos
• Map of Tefe
• Map of Fordlandia
• Map of Caracarai
• Map of Alter do Chao
• Map of Belterra
• Map of Ruropolis

Manaus throughout the year

• Manaus in January
• Manaus in February
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• Manaus in April
• Manaus in May
• Manaus in June
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• Manaus in September
• Manaus in October
• Manaus in November
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Top Tours in Manaus, Brazil

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1. A Whole Day in the Jungle

2. 3 Days Amazon Jungle Adventure Tour

3. Amazon Negro River Half-Day Expedition Tour

4. Amazon Jungle Experience with Overnight

5. 2 Days 1 Night at the Juma Lake Lodge

6. Amazon Safari from Manaus

7. Amazon Experience: meet a native village and swim with porpoises

8. 4 Days Amazon Jungle Adventure Tour

9. The Waterfalls of President Figueiredo - Day Tour in the Amazon

10. Historical City Tour

11. Amazon Waterfalls Tour

12. Amazon Adventure Wildlife Observation in a Night tour

13. 8-Hour Amazonas Jungle Treck & Anavilhanas Archipelago

14. Amazon and Negro Rivers Experience with Night Exploration Tour

15. Presidente Figueiredo Tour

16. Amazing Waterfalls of the Amazon - Presidente Figueiredo

17. Amazon Explore 4D/3N-At Amazon Tapiri Floating Lodge

18. Private Transfer Services 24h Airport to Hotel in Manaus

19. Meeting of the Waters & Pink Dolphin Tour with Lunch

20. River Day Tour from Manaus

21. Private city tour through the historic center of Manaus

22. Amazon Private Safari by Tuhiri Eco Tour - Leaving Manaus

23. Adventure: 4-hour hike in the Amazon rainforest

24. Manaus City Tour e Musa

25. Taste of the Amazon Jungle 3D-2N-A Amazon Tapiri Floating Lodge

26. 6 Days Amazon Jungle Adventure Tour

27. Amazon Survival Tour 4D/3N

28. Private Jewish tour in Manaus - Sephardic history -4 hours

29. 4-day Amazon River Boat Tour From Manaus

30. The Manaus Tour and Meeting of the Waters Half Day

What travellers are saying.

Deep in the Amazon Rainforest, a Bucket List Trip With a Thoughtful Mission

T HE FANTASY VERSION of the Amazon that often seduces travelers—of a pristine, impenetrably vast jungle populated by jaguars, sloths and isolated pockets of indigenous tribes—does not prepare one for Manaus. A sprawling metropolis of more than two million people in the middle of the rainforest, the city is Brazil’s pre-eminent free-trade zone and home to multinational corporations like Foxconn and Samsung.

A superb vantage point for people watching is a window seat at Caxiri, a restaurant overlooking Teatro Amazonas, a Belle Epoque opera house that opened in 1896. Back then, legend has it, Manaus was awash in so much wealth that some rubber barons shipped their clothes to Europe to be laundered. Today, the crowd at Caxiri is a frothy mix of the Amazon basin’s modern power brokers: deal-making executives, government officials, NGO leaders, activists and tour operators, all trying to protect or exploit the area’s resources.

Caxiri—where starters include crispy fried piranha, fangs still bared—is the brainchild of Débora Shornik, 47, a chef who has been cooking in the region for more than a decade. “I came here to discover the Amazon,” Shornik says. “I wanted to learn something different. Here I found fruits, vegetables and fish like nowhere else I’d ever been. I also met mentors, mostly home cooks, who taught me how to use these ingredients, all of which were new to me.”

Shornik was lured back here from São Paulo by her business partner, Ruy Carlos Tone, 56, a civil engineer and entrepreneur who renovated the mansion that houses Caxiri. Tone first toured this region of the Amazon as a sightseer in 2004 and enjoyed the trip so much, he pitched the tour boat’s captain on joining forces in a venture that offers small-group expeditions.

The buzzing lunchtime crowd at Caxiri is in some ways a microcosm of Brazil’s conflicting agendas over the future of the Amazon. Some see the rainforest as a vast resource that a developing nation must tap into; others believe protecting its ecosystem at all costs is the planet’s last, great hope for staving off a climate catastrophe. Though recent trends point to a reduction in deforestation in the first half of 2023, threats to the Amazon are rife: cattle ranching, farming, logging and mining cleared 9 percent of its forest cover in the first two decades of the 21st century. Climate change has brought drought so severe that, last fall, water in the Rio Negro near Manaus fell to its lowest level in more than a century.

Tone’s quest is to take visitors to the farther reaches of the rainforest so they can see with their own eyes what’s at stake and meet the riverine communities that have called the region home for more than a century. He will take me down the Rio Negro to see the riverside lodge he built in 2014 and to visit the site of his latest project, pending construction, a property deep in the jungle.

“Before the pandemic, people from Manaus would rather fly to Miami for a vacation than drive three hours to my jungle lodge,” he says. “Today, they’re learning about what is here—and why we need to protect this place.”

On the way out of the city we cut through Manaus’s bustling market on the banks of the Rio Negro, where açaí berries sit alongside lesser-known fruits like the bright, bitter tucuma, and where freshly caught pirarucu, a massive species of river fish, are hacked down for sale or dried and preserved. Decks of enormous ships overflow with passengers, many lounging in hammocks hung for the long journey upriver into the rainforests toward Colombia, or downriver to Belém, a busy port city near Brazil’s Atlantic coast.

Tone was born to Brazilian-Japanese parents in São Paulo (Brazil is home to the largest Japanese community outside Japan). As a child he dreamed of adventure, but before he could see the world his father died unexpectedly. With four younger sisters to support, he took over the family’s small civil-engineering concern and eventually grew it into a large, profitable enterprise.

After a dozen or so years, Tone decided to scratch his travel itch another way. His expedition company, Katerre, is now run out of an office on the grounds of his riverside lodge, Mirante do Gavião, located in the Novo Airão municipality. While many of the area’s lodges resemble summer camps or research stations, Mirante’s modernist architecture evokes the wooden vessels that ply the Amazon.

Tone introduces me to Paul Clark, a Scotsman, and Bianca Bencivenni, an Italian, who co-founded a school in Jauaperi, an area along a remote tributary of the Rio Negro. The couple have lived in the region for nearly three decades, and Tone is their main backer. Clark explains that parts of the Amazon have for decades been under severe pressure from overfishing, cattle farming, poaching of endangered animals and other extractive enterprises. “When we first moved here and my daughter was born, about 26 years ago, there were over 50 kinds of fish we caught and ate regularly,” he says. By the time his son arrived, eight years later, the number of edible species had dwindled by half.

Clark helped organize a local movement that lobbied for a law prohibiting commercial fishing and later succeeded in designating Jauaperi a federally protected reserve. He and his neighbors also worked to restore a turtle population that had nearly disappeared from illegal consumption. Clark slept on the beach during egg-hatching season and confronted armed poachers in a nonviolent way, saying, “Is it really worth killing me just to get a turtle egg?”

Our journey down the Rio Negro, which runs more or less parallel to and a few hundred miles north of the Amazon River, is taken aboard an eight-cabin boat piloted by Tone’s business partner, Oziel Rodrigues. “People imagine the Amazon to be uninhabited, like a national park or a nature preserve,” Tone says as we drift past settlements. “But there are small communities all along the river, people who have been here for a very long time.” Protection of these areas was neglected during the presidency of Jair Bolsonaro, from 2019 to 2022. The administration cut funding for park rangers and other enforcement agents, allowing commercial fishing and cattle ranching to expand, largely unchecked, even in regions where such activities were outlawed. “One of my goals,” Tone says, “is to find ways to help these people, through education, through employment, so that they don’t turn to poaching or illegal fishing to survive.”

Most people living in the riverside communities of Amazonas refer to themselves as caboclos, a word akin to mestizo, signifying a mix of indigenous and settler heritage (typically Portuguese). Though it was once considered a derogatory term in Brazil, today many locals are embracing and celebrating their caboclo identity.

Leaving the big boat, we venture farther into the forest on powerboats that accommodate three or four people, or smaller wooden canoes. At this time of the year, toward the end of the rainy season, the water level is so high that, in many places, only the tips of trees are visible, and the jungle becomes known as the flooded forest.

Navigating by canoe involves paddling around treetops—venturing into narrow channels so densely packed with vegetation, the midday equatorial sun is nearly eclipsed.

At dusk we spot a flock of bright-green macaws, then a pair of toucans streaking across the sky. Our guide points to a sloth dozing in some high branches. The Rio Negro offers a distinct advantage over other waterways: The remains of long-decayed trees make the water highly acidic, deterring mosquitoes. While the Amazon River is rife with insects and traversed by cruise ships, here we eat outdoors in short sleeves and pass only an occasional local boat after leaving town in Novo Airão.

Tone has been telling me about his progression as a travel entrepreneur, starting with Katerre Expeditions, then Mirante do Gavião lodge, which offers day trips. Now he’s developing much longer voyages of around two weeks aboard a new vessel, La Jangada, “where we take visitors deeper into nature, and into the way of life of people who live on the river.”

The remote setting of his newest project, Madada lodge—about three hours by boat upriver from Novo Airão—will include spaces that front the forest canopy. Its biomimetic design is based on a structure that debuted at the 2021 Venice Biennale, in which the architecture is patterned after the surrounding flora. “Because of its location and these new kinds of structures, the idea is that you are completely immersed in the forest at the lodge,” Tone says.

On my last day in the Amazon, we visit Biatüwi, a restaurant that Tone and Shornik helped launch in a colonial-era neighborhood of Manaus. Chef-owner Clarinda Maria Ramos, who is pursuing a Ph.D. in anthropology while running the restaurant, is a member of the Sateré-Mawé, an indigenous group from the border area between Amazonas and Pará; her husband, anthropologist João Paulo Lima Barreto, who hails from the Tukanos of Rio Tiquié, in the upper Rio Negro system, runs an adjacent center for indigenous medicine. Biatüwi’s menu is drawn from both traditions and features an intensely sour, peppery fish soup served with an optional side: your choice of two varieties of jungle ant, one of which bears the distinct flavor of lemongrass.

“We are proud to be the first indigenous people selling our own food, in our own place,” Ramos says. “This is what we make at home. It’s not a formal meal. It’s restorative, healthful, natural—it’s what we serve to make people feel good.”

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